Trade marks

All industries and businesses, us included, need a trade name which they use in conjunction with numerous trade marks to market its products and services. A well known established name or logo can be an invaluable asset to your business, and should be protected accordingly.

How often have you found yourself in the supermarket drawn to well known brand names and their distinctive logos?

Trade mark protection does not stop at words, phrases and lettering; it extends to sounds, shapes, aspects of packaging; even smell. For instance,

the shape of your favourite soft drink bottle; or

unusual triangular wrapper of a chocolate bar.

Originally a tool to protect consumers by linking products with their manufacturers; they are now a used to convey goodwill and reputation that you work hard to build.

A registered trade mark gives you the exclusive right to use, licence or sell your trade mark. Trade marks are also important considerations in the area of domain names, be it enforcing domain name disputes or registering a new name.

Shipleys can advise you on the registrability of your mark and make an application to register it.